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Summary

This comprehensive guide to an epic Big Sur road trip covers must-visit sights, from the iconic Bixby Creek Bridge to the majestic McWay Falls, along with hidden gems like Partington Cove and the serene Sand Dollar Beach. With detailed itineraries for 1-3 days, travelers can explore the rugged beauty of Big Sur's coastline, enjoy hikes through state parks, and witness the natural spectacle of elephant seals.

Day 1: Monterey & Big Sur Highlights

Start your Big Sur adventure in Monterey with coffee and breakfast, followed by a visit to Point Lobos State Natural Reserve for hiking. Explore Garrapata State Park, marvel at Bixby Creek Bridge, and end your day with a sunset hike.

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🍴 Captain + Stoker

A cool coffee shop in Monterey with a laid-back vibe, offering delicious drinks and loaded avocado toasts to fuel you up for a day of exploration.

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<div class="-md-ext-youtube-widget"> { "title": "Talk Story with Captain + Stoker Coffee Roasters", "link": "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ecLVe38OvO4", "channel": { "name": "Savor Brands ~ Coffee Packaging & Print House"}, "published_date": "Oct 1, 2022", "length": "17:52" }</div>

<div class="-md-ext-youtube-widget"> { "title": "CamelBak Chronicles: Captain + Stoker", "link": "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=omqvDMlBbKE", "channel": { "name": "CamelBak"}, "published_date": "Apr 17, 2023", "length": "2:23" }</div>

<div class="-md-ext-youtube-widget"> { "title": "Meet Tyler and Kelsea, Owners of Captain + Stoker", "link": "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Cdz9jaZccBc", "channel": { "name": "Monterey Living"}, "published_date": "Jul 20, 2021", "length": "13:23" }</div>

Tips

Don't miss trying their signature loaded avocado toasts for a satisfying and energizing breakfast.

Travel Information
📞   Phone: (831) 901-3776
🌐   Website: https://www.captainandstoker.com/
🕒   Hours: See hours
⏳   Typical duration: 15-45 min
📍   Address: 398 E Franklin St, Monterey, CA 93940
🔗   Profiles: Facebook

🏞 Point Lobos State Natural Reserve

Referred to as the crown jewel of California state parks, Point Lobos State Natural Reserve boasts miles of hiking trails, headlands, coves, and rich flora and fauna, making it a nature lover's paradise.

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Tips

Arrive early to beat the crowds and savor the tranquility of the reserve. Don't forget to explore the Point Lobos Loop Trail for a comprehensive experience of the park's natural beauty.

Travel Information
📞   Phone: (831) 624-4909
🌐   Website: https://www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=571
🕒   Hours: See hours
📍   Address: Carmel-By-The-Sea, CA 93923

🏖 Garrapata State Park

Garrapata State Park is a hidden gem in Big Sur, offering a variety of trails and stunning beaches, including a dog-friendly beach, providing a perfect blend of coastal beauty and outdoor adventure.

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Tips

Make sure to explore the Soberanes Point Trail and Bluff Trail for breathtaking coastal views and a memorable hiking experience.

Travel Information
📞   Phone: (831) 624-4909
🌐   Website: http://www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=579
🕒   Hours: See hours
⏳   Typical duration: 45 min
📍   Address: 34500 CA-1, Carmel-By-The-Sea, CA 93923
🔗   Profiles: Facebook

🌉 Bixby Creek Bridge

One of the most iconic sites in Big Sur, the Bixby Creek Bridge is renowned for its stunning architecture and panoramic views, making it a must-visit spot for photography enthusiasts and nature admirers.

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Tips

Visit at sunrise to witness the bridge in the soft morning light and enjoy the serene atmosphere with fewer crowds.

Day 2: Exploring Big Sur

Continue your journey south with breakfast at Big Sur Bakery, hike to Partington Cove, witness the majestic McWay Falls, and explore the beauty of Ragged Point.

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Big Sur Bakery

A great place to start your day with breakfast.

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Tips

Try their pastries and coffee.

Travel Information
📞   Phone: (831) 667-0520
🌐   Website: http://www.bigsurbakery.com/
🕒   Hours: See hours
⏳   Typical duration: 20-45 min
📍   Address: 47540 CA-1, Big Sur, CA 93920
🔗   Profiles: Facebook X (Twitter) LinkedIn Instagram

Partington Cove

A 1.1 mile trail leading to multiple gorgeous coves and a tunnel.

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Tips

The hike back up is steep and exposed, so bring water.

Travel Information
📞   Phone: (800) 777-0369
🕒   Hours: See hours
📍   Address: 51700 CA-1, Big Sur, CA 93920

McWay Falls

An 80-foot waterfall that falls onto a pristine beach, one of Big Sur's most iconic sights.

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<div class="-md-ext-youtube-widget"> { "title": "Visiting McWay Falls Near Big Sur, CA", "link": "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yxy2IWUlOjc", "channel": { "name": "Califoreigners"}, "published_date": "Jun 13, 2023", "length": "1:05" }</div>

<div class="-md-ext-youtube-widget"> { "title": "VLOG 98: McWay Falls (Julia Pfeiffer Burns SP - Big Sur, CA)", "link": "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=noFLqmRawv8", "channel": { "name": "FlyingDawnMarie"}, "published_date": "Jun 21, 2021", "length": "3:10" }</div>

<div class="-md-ext-youtube-widget"> { "title": "Big Sur Ep.3: This is the McWay - McWay Falls, CA", "link": "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZW2EurCvBoU", "channel": { "name": "The C.A.R.E. Channel"}, "published_date": "Jul 20, 2022", "length": "2:34" }</div>

Tips

View from the road for a free and elevated perspective.

Ragged Point

Offers hiking opportunities, hidden beaches, and waterfalls.

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Tips

Try the Ragged Point Trail for a challenging hike to a black sand beach.

Travel Information
📞   Phone: +18885846374
🌐   Website: http://www.raggedpointinn.com/
📍   Address: 19019 CA-1, Ragged Point, CA 93452
🔗   Profiles: Facebook Instagram X (Twitter)

🌊 Day 3: South Big Sur & Beyond

Spend your day exploring Limekiln State Park, relaxing at Sand Dollar Beach, and observing elephant seals at their vista point. Optionally, tour Hearst Castle if time allows.

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🌲 Limekiln State Park

Nestled within the redwood forests, Limekiln State Park is known for its historic kilns dating back to the 1880s.

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<div class="-md-ext-youtube-widget"> { "title": "Limekiln State Park: Historic Kilns & a Waterfall in Big Sur", "link": "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H_lyxb4klkM", "channel": { "name": "California Through My Lens"}, "published_date": "Mar 21, 2018", "length": "2:03" }</div>

<div class="-md-ext-youtube-widget"> { "title": "Limekiln State Park, Big Sur Coast", "link": "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZNiORmC7F0w", "channel": { "name": "Traveling A to Z"}, "published_date": "Jun 2, 2021", "length": "6:34" }</div>

<div class="-md-ext-youtube-widget"> { "title": "Hiking Limekiln State Park: Waterfalls, Historic Kilns & the Sea ...", "link": "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BxgufoRHUfc", "channel": { "name": "Main Street ASA"}, "published_date": "May 31, 2020", "length": "20:57" }</div>

Tips

Hike the picturesque Limekiln Creek Falls Trail, a 1.4-mile trail that offers a blend of natural beauty and historical significance, showcasing the remnants of the lime extraction industry.

Travel Information
📞   Phone: (805) 434-1996
🌐   Website: https://www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=577
📍   Address: 63025 CA-1, Big Sur, CA 93920
🔗   Profiles: Facebook

🏖️ Sand Dollar Beach

Sand Dollar Beach, Big Sur's largest unbroken stretch of sand, offers a serene setting for picnics and surfing, with pristine waters and a stunning mountain backdrop.

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Tips

Plan your visit during low tide to fully enjoy the expansive beach space and consider bringing your furry friend along, as dogs are welcome and allowed to be off-leash.

Travel Information
📞   Phone: (805) 434-1996
🌐   Website: http://campone.com/day-use/sand-dollar-beach/
🕒   Hours: See hours
📍   Address: CA-1, Big Sur, CA 93920

🌊 Elephant Seal Vista Point

The Elephant Seal Vista Point is home to the captivating natural spectacle of elephant seals' return, with thousands of seals engaging in their mating rituals along the coastline.

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Tips

For the best experience, visit between mid-November and mid-January to witness the lively mating season and the dramatic displays of dominance among the seals.

Travel Information
📞   Phone: +1 805-924-1628
🌐   Website: http://www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=26424
🕒   Hours: See hours
⏳   Typical duration: 25 min
📍   Address: San Simeon, CA 93452, United States